Tuesday, June 8, 2010

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A massive turnout is expected from small traders in the 45-day Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF) Season 4 that commences on December 1, according to a survey carried out in the 14 districts.

During the last three seasons of the festival, traders had enrolled as members mostly for gold and silver categories. Small traders did not respond positively to the festival despite several incentives announced for them. There was a misunderstanding among small traders that they will not get much benefit from the festival.

The survey carried out by Kozhikode-based Statinfo Solutions Private Limited among small traders in selected centres in the 14 districts has revealed that the perception of the traders had changed with the profit made by those who joined the festival.

The survey concentrated mainly on coastal villages, selected villages where traditional producers hail from and markets in major cities. It has been found that many purchase groceries in coastal areas on credit and clear the bills every month.

Those who purchase groceries for Rs.600, Rs.700 and Rs.800 from these shops will try to shop more from the outlets that enrol for the festival to get the coupons. This will result in an increase in business during the festival period.